I’ve been on many job interviews and applied for many jobs over the years. I’ve gone on interviews when i had a job I liked, and was looking to make a career move. And I’ve gone on interviews when I was unemployed and eager to get a job.
If you are currently employed and like the job and seeking a career move, they can’t give you lowball offers, because you will just stay in your current job instead.
But if you are unemployed and can’t be as choosy about offers you would accept, that’s when you may take the job that doesn’t pay as well as you would like.
It’s always easier to get a job when you already have one.
When I was doing that, and they asked how much I was currently making, I'd add $5,000 to my current rate. When they said they couldn't beat that but would match it, I'd hem and haw, then say the opportunities looked better at that org and take it. Once they upped the ante $1,000.
Got fooled the first time (gave an honest answer), then wised up.